Ultimate Guide: How To Get From Chiang Mai Airport To City

If you’re planning your trip to Northern Thailand and wondering how to get from Chiang Mai Airport to the city center, you’re in the right place!

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As someone who has been traveling solo around the world for the past two years, I know firsthand how important it is to have an arrival plan when you’re visiting a new place – especially for solo female travelers!

I flew into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) twice when I was living in Chiang Mai this past year, once internationally and once domestically. I know that feeling of being tired from a long flight and just wanting to get to my accommodation.

There are many considerations when it comes to selecting your method of transport from Chiang Mai Airport: cost, convenience, travel time, safety, and comfort.

The airport is only 5km (3 miles) from the Old City.

One of the most popular ways to get to the Old City from the Chiang Mai Airport is via the Chiang Mai Airport taxis. A taxi from Chiang Mai Airport to city takes about 15 minutes and costs 150 baht (approximately $4.20 USD).

But, sometimes there’s a wait for taxis outside of Chiang Mai Airport arrivals, and you may need another option. Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking to save a couple of bucks and want to go the “local way.” Let’s talk about them all!

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1. Chiang Mai Airport Taxi

One of the most convenient options for getting from Chiang Mai Airport to city center is taking a Chiang Mai Airport Taxi.

Chiang Mai Airport Taxi Price: For a flat rate of 150 baht (approximately $4.20 USD), you can reach any location within the Old City in about 15 minutes or so.

Alternatively, if you are departing from the city, a metered taxi to Chiang Mai Airport will cost around the same amount.

Pros: Taxis provide a hassle-free journey, allowing you to relax and enjoy the sights along the way.

Cons: Taxis can be a bit more expensive than other options, depending on your destination.

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2. Chiang Mai Airport Transfer

As a solo female traveler, I sometimes book an airport transfer in advance of my arrival. While it’s not always the cheapest option (in this case it’s pretty close), I’m willing to pay more if it means guaranteed safety, especially if I arrive in a new city at night.

There’s nothing like being exhausted after a long flight and having a ride waiting for you, with a professional driver who knows where you’re going, so you don’t have to think or stress for even a second.

I recently booked an airport transfer for less than $5 USD, thinking it was too good to be true, but it couldn’t have gone more smoothly! The driver was waiting for me as promised by the exit, holding a sign with my name on it. Easy peasy.

Pros: Easily bookable in advance, guaranteed safe ride with a professional driver who knows where you’re going

Cons: More expensive than other options

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3. Grab Taxi

I often prefer Grab (it’s like Uber, but the Southeast Asia version) over a regular Chiang Mai taxi, especially as a solo female traveler.

While it’s perfectly safe to take a taxi in Thailand, some drivers do try to overcharge passengers. Or sometimes they get lost!

Plus, there’s occasionally a wait for one of the airport taxis.

With Grab, I don’t have to worry about negotiating a price or dealing with a pushy driver, I can pay on my credit card, and I can follow along on the app to make sure we’re going in the right direction.

If you don’t have an internet connection, then this option won’t work for you.

The cost to use Grab to get to the Old City from the airport is usually about the same price as a taxi.

It’s best to have the Grab app downloaded and set up before you leave your home country because they’ll text you a one-time code.

Pro Tip: You can book your Grab pick-up in advance for your ride back to the airport. I did this recently since I had to leave at 5AM and didn’t want to stress about finding a ride.

Pros: No negotiating with drivers, rides are tracked, can pay by credit card

Cons: May have to wait for one to arrive, need an internet connection

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4. Red Songthaew Truck

If you’re not in a rush, you can take a “songthaew” aka “red car” from the Chiang Mai Airport to the Old City. A songthaew is the Chiang Mai version of public transportation. Think of it like a shared taxi that picks up and drops off passengers along the way.

For just 40 baht (approximately $1.10 USD), these red trucks will take you into the city. Keep in mind that they wait until the truck is full and make stops along the way.

You’ll see the red trucks lined up outside of the airport. Just tell the driver where you’re going (you may need to show them on a map or tell them a well-known landmark nearby) and hop in. You’ll pay upon arrival.

This is one of the cheapest ways to get around in Chiang Mai, and I encourage all travelers to take a songthaew at least once during their visit!

Pro Tip: If you are traveling in a group, you can even negotiate a price for a private ride – they fit 8-10 passengers!

Pros: Cheap, a local experience

Cons: Wait to leave until full, make frequent stops, drivers often overcharge tourists, may be challenging with luggage

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5. Tuk Tuk from Chiang Mai Airport

If you are seeking a fun and adventurous transport option, look no further than the famous Thailand Tuk Tuks.

A tuk tuk is a three-wheeled motorized vehicle.

Unfortunately, tuk tuk drivers in Chiang Mai tend to overcharge tourists. Make sure to negotiate a fair rate, considering that a regular taxi ride from the airport costs 150 baht.

You can order a tuk tuk on the Grab app, or check Grab to have an idea of how much one should cost to help you haggle (although Grab is usually cheaper than what you’ll be able to negotiate).

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6. Chiang Mai Airport Bus

For the budget-conscious traveler, the Airport Bus is an excellent choice for getting from the Chiang Mai Airport to City. With a fare as low as 20 baht (approximately $0.55 USD), this is the most economical option available.

There are two Chiang Mai airport bus routes to choose from.

Look for the bus stop outside the Chiang Mai Airport Arrivals area and hop on either the Red Line or Yellow Line:

Yellow Chiang Mai Airport Bus Route: Chiang Mai Airport – Wualai Road – Night Bazaar – Tha Phae Gate (connected to the red line) – Chang Phueak Gate – Kad Suan Kaew (connected to the red line) – MAYA – Chiang Mai Airport

Red Chiang Mai Airport Bus Route: Chiang Mai Airport – Suan Dok – MAYA – Kad Suan Kaew (connected to the yellow line) / Sam Kasat – Tha Phae Gate (connected to the yellow line) – Night Bazaar – Central Airport – Chiang Mai Airport

Buses operate every 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Pros: Cheapest option available

Cons: Slowest option, may be challenging with luggage

👉 Pro Tip: I use this site to look up train, bus, and ferry routes.

7. Chiang Mai Airport Shuttle Bus

Some hotels may offer a Chiang Mai Airport Shuttle service for their guests.

Contact your hotel (hopefully it has a rooftop pool!) directly to inquire about availability and pricing.

Chiang Mai Airport to Nimman (And Other Neighborhoods)

As a backpacker, I stayed in the Old City. But, when I returned to Chiang Mai to live as a digital nomad, I chose the Nimman neighborhood as my home.

So, what if you’re going from the Chiang Mai Airport to another neighborhood besides the Old City?

The 150 baht flat fare should still be in effect for most neighborhoods in Chiang Mai, but for further neighborhoods, your driver may try to negotiate with you.

When in doubt, check the Grab app to know what a fair fare is!

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Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is just under 200km northeast of the Chiang Mai Airport.

If for some reason you choose not to fly directly into Chiang Mai International Airport (maybe there was not a good route), then you can travel to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai.

The best way to get to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai International Airport is to book a transfer.

This is the most convenient option as it takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, and you have a guaranteed fixed rate with no hidden costs. You can arrange this in advance, so once you arrive you don’t have to worry about navigating public transportation or haggling with taxi drivers.

A fair price for a taxi from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai is about 4,000 baht ($110 USD).

Alternatively, you can take the bus from the Chiang Mai terminal in the city, however, this will take considerably longer. But it only costs about 250 baht ($7 USD!).

Lastly, if you’re looking for more of an adventure you could also rent a car at the airport or through Discover Cars. Whichever option you choose, Chiang Rai awaits!

🚙 I recommend using Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal.

Chiang Mai to Airport

Trying to get back to the airport from Chiang Mai?

You can take any of these same options in reverse.

A taxi to the Chiang Mai Airport should be metered (always ask for the meter) and should cost about 150 baht, depending on the route.

I prefer to use the Grab app so that I can be sure to get charged fairly.

✈️ Search for cheap flights to Thailand here.

Getting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai (and Vice Versa)

There are 3 ways to get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok:

Train: The train is perfect for budget travelers and those who want a local and fun adventure. It’s not just about the affordability, it’s also super convenient. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet awesome new friends (like I did!). Book ahead and aim for the first or second class for a comfortable experience.

Plane: There are several flights between Chiang Mai and Bangkok via Air Asia, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Nok Air. Flying is faster but more expensive. Thailand is investing a lot of money into its airports, so they should get even better.

Bus: Best option to save money. Get a VIP bus with comfortable seats and air conditioning for your long journey. Some of the cheaper buses are too “budget” for most backpackers.

👉 Pro Tip: Taking the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai or from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a classic Thailand experience! I use this site to look up train and bus routes in Southeast Asia. Try to book at least a few days in advance because the trains do sell out, especially the lower beds. I recommend first or second-class sleeper cars that have air conditioning.

Chiang Mai Airport SIM Card

I haven’t personally gotten my SIM card from the Chiang Mai Airport – I arrived very late and the counters were already closed for the night, unfortunately.

If that happens to you, head to Maya Mall the next day for a SIM card – they have both AIS and DTAC stores there. Don’t forget your passport!

The most popular service providers in Thailand are AIS, DTAC, and True Move. I’ve only used AIS and DTAC and they’re both fine. I’ve heard True Move is cheaper and also good enough.

My 90-day SIM card with unlimited data (DTAC, purchased at Maya Mall) cost me 935 baht (about $26 USD).

👉 My top pick for a hotel in Chiang Mai is POR Thapae Gate because it’s in the perfect location and has a great breakfast! The staff here is amazing, and you’ll love having a relaxing place to come home to after a full day of exploring.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

If you’re coming to Chiang Mai for the first time, or only have a few days, I recommend you stay in the Old City. Nimman is my preferred neighborhood for longer stays and digital nomads. There are several other Chiang Mai neighborhoods worth considering, too!

Old City Neighborhood

Budget: Hostel Lullaby – where I stayed as a backpacker, and I loved the comfy beds and social breakfasts.

Mid-range: POR Thapae Gate – the complimentary bikes and outdoor swimming pool are a plus.

Luxury: The Inside House – luxurious suites with private pools, first-class service, and complimentary afternoon tea.

Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Neighborhood

Budget: Box Hostel n Cafe – great backpacker hostel in a convenient location.

Mid-range: U Nimman – great value, prime Nimman location, and a rooftop pool!

Luxury: Akyra Manor – luxurious hotel with rooftop infinity pool, top-rated Italian restaurant, and located in the heart of Nimman.

👉 My pick for the best hostel in Chiang Mai is Hostel Lullaby. I stayed here multiple times when I was backpacking Thailand. It’s a quiet hostel that attracts more mature backpackers and is in a great location with super comfortable beds with curtains and rooms with A/C. I made so many friends who I traveled with all over Northern Thailand at the complimentary breakfast.

Wrap Up: Chiang Mai Airport to Old City

While I often show up in new countries without an itinerary, I never arrive at a new destination without a plan for how I’m getting to my first accommodation – that’s solo travel 101!

The best and easiest way to get from Chiang Mai Airport to Old Town is to take a taxi. It’s easy to find at the airport and will cost just 150 baht ($4.20 USD).

If you don’t mind paying a little more for a stress-free arrival, then I recommend booking your airport transfer in advance – sometimes it’s just worth it to arrive somewhere and not have to think!

If you’re on a budget, there are also buses and red trucks available that may take longer but will cost much less.

Now that you have your arrival plan figured out, you need to think about how you’re going to get around Chiang Mai for the rest of your trip!

Ultimate Guide: How to Get from Chiang Mai Airport to City